Nominees for Dallas Morning News Texan of the Year aren't required to be heroes. The short-and-sweet definition is "A Texan (or Texans) who has had uncommon impact -- either positive or negative -- over the past year."

Often the very label of "positive or negative" is a subject of debate, depending on what prism you are choosing to look through. But one nominee, whom I suspect we all would view as heroic, is Blake Pyron, the 20-year-old proprietor of Blake's Snow Shack in Sanger.

Pyron is so popular among Sanger's residents that we have received 70-plus submissions naming him their choice. (It's worth noting that, while it's heartwarming to see how beloved Pyron is, we don't ascribe additional weight to names with multiple nominations.)

Honored earlier this year by Sen. Ted Cruz with a written proclamation calling him "the youngest business owner in Sanger," Pyron is also, according to his mother, the only business owner there with Down syndrome -- and likely one of only a few statewide. This young man, who opened his snow cone stand in May, has clearly shown what it means to inspire others and overcome challenges; many of those who nominated him said they had been personally touched by his smile and business savvy.

Another uplifting nomination was made on behalf of every one of us who turned out to vote this year. This nominator honored Texas voters like so: "In spite of all the awful circumstances, mud-slinging, lying, propaganda, hype, surrounding our presidential election, voters turned out in record numbers, taking advantage of and responsibility for the great privilege of casting a ballot. This spotlights our American freedom."

Politics and hot-button issues are front-and-center with many nominators. Wilshire Baptist Church pastor George Mason made the list because, in the words of one reader, "his thoughtful and compassionate leadership on the full inclusion of the LGBT community represents the best of what it means to be a Christian and putting our faith to work."

Likewise, a number of nominations arrived for Bill Metzger, a Dallas County justice of the peace who represents the Mesquite area and who made news early this year when he said on Facebook that his religious views keep prevent him from conducting same-sex weddings. A number of nominators noted that he is representing their values on the issue.

While we regularly emphasize the words "this year" in our Texan of the Year campaign -- i.e., what the person has accomplished -- for better or worse -- in 2016, some nominations are based more on lifetime achievement. While those names generally don't make our final nine finalists and Texan of the Year, they are often interesting reads and good reminders of what makes the Lone Star State special.

For instance, there's the nomination of Big Tex, about whom a reader wrote: "Millions from all over Texas come to see him. People eat beneath his feet, they use his height to shade themselves from the October sun, children are in awe the first time they see him. Who else in Texas can even come close to these qualities?"

Or this nomination for a well-known face on Texas Rangers broadcasts: love-him-or-hate-him Jim Knox. This reader said, "He made Globe Life Park a fun and exciting place for visitors from all over, showing true Texas hospitality and embracing young and old alike. Many people's first visit to Texas was made better by him being around the Texas Rangers' home field."

My personal favorite from the last couple of weeks? Nominated by a Temple, Texas, reader, Dr. Rebecca Sharpless of TCU and history professors like her.

The nominator wrote, "History teachers help us make sense of the illogical, to help us understand that we are but a small ripple in the mighty ocean of cause and effect. Teachers such as Sharpless and her colleagues help the young, disaffected voter see that 'the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.' Along the way, she empowered young women to a new appreciation and understanding of their inherent power and goodness. Now, more than ever, we need the past to help us make sense of the present and chart the future."

Those are just a few of the more than 200 names currently on our Texan of the Year list, built from about 450 nominations. We'd love to add your choice to the ones already tallied below. We'll begin publishing Texan of the Year finalists in mid-December, so time for nominations is getting short.

(The names marked with asterisks reflect names added to the list since we last published it.)

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott: This reader from Richardson wrote: "He has tried to hold the ground for the people of Texas. To me, he has been a true shepherd to watch of the people of Texas. He is proactive in the issues that concern the growth, health, safety and happiness of Texan. He is a True Texan in heart."

Micah Ahern: This 7-year-old Arlington boy was a beloved part of TCU's baseball team for three straight trips to the College World Series. His poignant story, the reader said "is a testament to perseverance and stamina." Micah passed away in July.

Charlotte Jones Anderson: A Dallas reader nominated Anderson "for her leadership in building The Star in Frisco, a new international focal point that is reshaping the national model for public-private partnerships and raising the bar in the NFL. The impact that this facility has on the students of Frisco ISD and the North Texas community is unprecedented.

Patricia Arvanitis: The executive director of Leadership ISD deserves Texan of the Year consideration, according to this nominator, "she has a spirit of good will and optimism that makes people want to believe in public education and work to improve it. Leadership ISD is producing the kind of unexpected ideas and advocates that local urban districts in Texas need. And the group has expanded to Fort Worth with plans to start in Houston next year. Finally, public education needs more friends in the next Lege who have a good understanding of funding and legal issues, not to mention equity and teacher quality."

Jorge Baldor: The founder of the Latino Center for Leadership Development, whose inaugural class in Dallas already led to three members running for -- and winning -- political offices. As the nominator wrote, "Baldor is changing the face of politics."

Carol Basso: In honor of her daughter, who succumbed to a rare cancer in 2011, Basso established the 1Million4 Anna Foundation, which is dedicated to funding research for Ewing's sarcoma as well as scholarships for other teens and young adults afflicted by the bone and soft-tissue cancer that Anna wrestled with for a year and a half.

Beyonce: This reader's reason for the nomination? Well, Beyonce.

*Big Tex: This nominating reader said: "A stalwart of Texas and no political affliction, no religious affliction. Stands in silence, except for the two words "Howdy, Folks." Millions from all over Texas come to see him each year. People eat beneath his feet, they use his height to shade themselves from the October sun, children are in awe the first time they see him and can't wait to visit him next year. Now who else in Texas can even come close to these qualities?"

Cecilia Guthrie Boone: The nominator wrote: "There may be no private individual who, year in and year out, has worked as hard for women's well-being as Dallas philanthropist Cecilia Boone. She has worked for and fought tirelessly for Planned Parenthood, unwavering during its shrill demonization by far-right conservatives. But she has done so much more as well, helping recruit female candidates for public office; serving on roll-up-your-sleeves board and commissions; finding ways to encourage young women; helping find the means to get health services to women who are poor and disadvantaged -- all with an unassuming grace not always characteristic of the well-to-do. In July, working through the Boone Family Foundation that she co-founded with her husband, Boone partnered with the Harold Simmons Foundation to provide $2 million toward getting low-income women access to long-acting reversible contraception, or LARCS. These safe, reliable, exceptionally effective forms of contraception are the new gold standard in birth control -- but the up-front cost is often too high for young and low-income women. This grant will help many of them lead healthy, productive lives."

Leon Bridges: One of our Texan of the Year finalists last year, the singer from Fort Worth is getting nominations again in 2016.

Amber Briggle: Along with her husband, Adam, this Denton resident has been a fierce advocate for her transgender son, MG. Among the many readers nominating her, this one wrote: "Her family opened their home to Attorney General Ken Paxton. Amber is advocating to help open hearts to all the children of Texas."

Madelyn Lorraine Brinkley: Brinkley made an impression on this reader for "working as a Dallas precinct leader in the recent elections and posted her experiences on Facebook."

Peter Brodsky: As chair of the Dallas Animal Commission, the Dallas businessman single-handedly raised the money for an independent assessment by the Boston Consulting Group that provided cold, hard facts about the loose dog crisis in southern Dallas. That report led to changes in leadership and priorities at Dallas Animal Services.

David Brown: The just-retired Dallas police chief is, not surprisingly, receiving a multitude of nominations from readers for his leadership in the aftermath of the July 7 shooting of officers in downtown Dallas. Also nominated alongside Brown by many readers is the entire Dallas Police Department, and from others, Mayor Mike Rawlings. Another hero nominated from the night of the ambush is Dr. Brian Williams. This nominator wrote: "No one captured the conflicting emotions that many black Americans feel toward America's police force than this Parkland Memorial Hospital trauma surgeon. Williams, who was in the emergency room the night a madman ambushed officers securing an anti-police violence rally in downtown Dallas, coolly and calmly called for an end to violence and a need for all of us to walk in each other's shoes." And many of our readers also have nominated the five officers who died in the line of duty: Lorne Ahrens, Michael Krol, Michael Smith, Brent Thompson and Patrick Zamarripa.

Ron Brown: Haven for Hope outreach manager in San Antonio. Built in 2010, Haven for Hope is a 22-acre, first-of-its-kind homeless campus. The nominator wrote: "Through countless hours of building trust within the homeless population to working directly with the San Antonio Police Department to encourage loiterers and squatters to utilize Haven's resources or address mental illness, Ron Brown is transforming San Antonio's homeless population one individual at a time."

Rodney Buentello: This retired Marine was visiting Bandera City Park with his family in June when he spotted two teens struggling in the dam's hydraulic undertow. The 42-year-old San Antonio resident and two-time Purple Heart recipient pulled both to safety before he was dragged under by the swift current. He sacrificed his own life to save two others.

Brittany Byrd: This nominating reader wrote, in part: "As a SMU Dedman School of Law student, I've had the opportunity to work with Brittany Byrd on the Clemency Project. ... Brittany is currently overseeing about 30 of us students in our work on prisoner clemency applications, which we will send to President Obama and the White House. Brittany has recently left her corporate legal job to work on this full time."

Gwendolyn Campbell: The nomination reads: Creator of God's Rods (Recovering Our Destiny Sisters) in Allen. This author, single mother and prayer warrior created this support group for women, often overlooked and abused to unite stand strong on Christian principles of faith courage and repentance to reclaim their God-centered success. At 74 years of age she says the best is yet to come.

*Brandon Carr: This nominator wrote about the Dallas Cowboys player: "While today's society celebrates a player's fantast sports value more than his actual human value, Carr provides a shine example of everything professional athletes can and should be, becoming a role model for thousands of schoolchildren across North Texas through his volunteer activities."

Jeffrey D. Cirillo: This professor in the Texas A&M College of Medicine has developed a test for TB that can be completed in less than 10 minutes. According to the news report this nominator included in her submission: "Studies have shown the test can catch 80 percent of cases that would have otherwise been missed using normal tests." According to the Texas A&M University Health Science Center, Cirillo also has a new approach that can detect TB without sputum samples - a quality especially important for detecting the disease in children who are often unable to produce enough sputum for the standard test. Cirillo along with Texas A&M biomedical engineers continue developing new systems to detect drug resistance.

*Trammell S. Crow: From the nominating reader: "Trammell' s civic and humanitarian efforts are herculean in size and worthy of this prestigious recognition. Trammell's dedication, laser focus and hard work in the arts, education/humanities and the environment have had an enormous impact on our community. For the arts: The Crow Collection of Asian Art is not only a museum with wonderful treasures but also a community asset with educational programming and activities for all. ... For the environment: Earth Day Texas is the largest event focusing on the environment in the world! Over the past six years this free exposition and conference open to all ages has become known as the event that provides high quality educational programs, speakers and activities focusing on sustainability. ... For education/humanities: Paul Quinn College has been the beneficiary of Trammell making the largest gift ever in the history of the school to establish The Trammell S. Crow Living & Learning Center. This center will include classrooms, community meeting space and student housing. This gift is unprecedented in the history of Paul Quinn College and will put it on a new trajectory in the field of higher education. Through his work in these fields, millions have been touched and educated. He has given tirelessly of himself and his resources to make it a better community and world for all.

Ted Cruz: A Prosper reader wrote in his nomination: "He is a principled man and a true constitutional conservative who does what he says and really cares about Texas and its people."

Mark Cuban: The Mavericks owner and Trump-snubber has received several nominations. One of them said, "He is truly humble and always supports the citizens of Dallas."

Defenders of Freedom: From the nominator, members of this group "work for our veterans because they know each one of these special people gave everything for us. They consider their time, talents, love and care a small portion of what we owe our military. The Defenders of Freedom are what we all should strive to imitate in our daily lives. They do so with no recognition, they only wish to serve."

Isha Desselle: This Houston resident, inspired by the elderly beggars she encountered on a trip to India, opened Turning Point Center in 1988 and, since then, has provided transitional housing for more than 7,000 homeless senior citizens.

Anna Dragsbaek: Founder and CEO of The Immunization Partnership and the state's leading spokesperson for the power and effectiveness of vaccines. For years Anna has supported and helped enact numerous bipartisan bills to improve immunization access and coverage and to protect the public health. The nomination included, "Millions of Texans have been impacted by her work and none of them will ever know that their child never contracted meningitis or their grandchild did not get whooping cough. Anna's incredible success is so poignantly beautiful because it is so completely invisible."

Donna Duvin: Executive director of the International Rescue Committee's office for her work to resettle refugees in North Texas in the face of what the nominating reader described as "the state's fear-based leaders."

Bishop Kevin Farrell: The legacy he built in the 1 million-member Catholic Diocese of Dallas as an outspoken problem solver and trust builder earned him a new post to connect the church to ordinary Catholics around the world and the title of Cardinal, effective Nov. 21. Central figure in the Ebola crisis and outspoken on open-carry, banned guns in the church.

Kellie Fischer: This nominator credits Fischer, chief financial officer of the Texas Rangers, with "keeping the baseball team in Arlington with a new stadium for the champions of the Western Division."

Tom Ford: The Austin native and fashion designer made his second feature film, Nocturnal Animals, which started generating Oscar buzz as soon as it premiered at the Venice Film Festival. Much of the film is set in South Texas, depicted as a barren, dangerous land.

Royal Furgeson: The dean of the UNT-Dallas College of Law, who is working hard to get the school the accreditation it desperately needs.

Joanna and Chip Gaines: HGTV's Fixer Upper stars and Waco's most famous entrepreneurs somehow managed to pull off an even bigger 2016 than 2015. Among their latest efforts, readers report, are a magazine publishing venture, purchase of the landmark Elite Café and the continued growth of their Magnolia Market at the Silos.

Jennifer Staubach Gates: This nominator writes, "This Dallas native grew up under the shadow of her father's reputation. She chose to become a nurse, then as a community-minded citizen, she became a Dallas City Council member. During the Ebola scare, she gave credence to the City of Dallas Mayor and Dallas County Judge. She is now tackling the Dallas Police and Fire Fighters pension mess. She sees a problem and quietly goes to work to suitably resolve the problem. She does not stand back, wag fingers, and carp about a problem."

John Hanke: This 49-year-old technology whiz behind this year's craze -- Pokemon Go -- grew up in tiny Cross Plains, where the self-described "hick from the sticks" taught himself to code his own video games.

Ty Hardaway: This reader notes that Hardaway attended a protest after the deadly attack on Dallas police July 7 and brought peace between Black Lives Matter And All Lives Matter groups. The nominator continues: "Mr. Hardaway has kept up the talks in the community and currently is working to get a town hall between citizens in Dallas and the local police department. .. Mr. Hardaway has a message that will unite Texas and the United States."

Susan Hawk: After her mysterious disappearance and high-profile return to duty last year, Hawk's second prolonged absence from the Dallas County district attorney's office was even more perplexing, especially to those less familiar with struggles with mental illness. Hawk's year started as well as she could have hoped, beating back a former subordinate's attempt to sue her out of office for incompetence. By May, however, she was back at the Menninger Clinic in Houston after an apparent relapse in the serious depression that took her out of action in 2015. Before she returned, she spent time at a mood disorder clinic in Arizona and never fully regained her footing. She hung onto her job until past the Aug. 26 deadline that would have required a special election in November to replace her. Instead, that task fell to Gov. Greg Abbott, a fellow Republican, sparking howls of unfairness from Dallas County Democrats, who fully expected they would win back the only countywide office they did not hold.

Katharine Hayhoe: This Texas Tech climate scientist, whom the NYT credits with emerging as one of the nation's most effective communicators on the threat of climate change and the need for action. Her calling card is a disarming congeniality and interest in talking with -- not blocking -- those who disagree with her.

Jasmin Hernandez, Stefanie Mundhenk and the women of Baylor: Hernandez is one of the former students who have brought a negligence lawsuit claiming the university acted callously and indifferently after she was raped by a Baylor football player. Mundhenk is one of the survivors who has brought attention to the fact that the sexual assaults are a campus-wide issue, not confined to the sports department. The survivors' courage and perseverance potentially will reshape the culture at Baylor and schools nationwide.

(Another suggestion on how to go regarding the Baylor scandal:Art Briles and Ken Starr. A scandal involving the handling of sexual assault complaints against scholarship football players was enough to bring down a winning football coach and a university president, pretty much ranked in order of importance at Baylor University. And that was far from the end of it. Baylor, the world's largest Baptist university, had a chance this year to move in a positive direction by proving to one and all that it had seen the light and would sin no more. Instead, a befuddled board of regents left too many details secret and gave Briles and his supporters, including Starr, a chance to fill the void with characterizations disguised as fact. Briles, these forces allege, was done wrong in being forced out of his job. Starr fed this nonsense by pronouncing Briles "an honorable man" who was dealt "a grave and serious injustice." Meanwhile, lost in the shuffle were the actual victims of sexual violence whose lives were dismissed as far less important by regents and their silence. This shameful behavior tracks back to an idea that a winning football team trumps all and that Art Briles was that winning coach.)

Jim Hightower: Former state agriculture commissioner and, most recently, blogger, commentator and self-described "America's #1 Populist" is nominated by several readers, one of whom wrote: "He is all Texan and keeps all Texans apprised of the continued attempt by corporations to overtake every aspect of our great state. I keep my ear to his blogs."

Charles Holmes: This nomination reads, "Mr. Holmes has served in many capacities as a volunteer for the Boy Scouts of America on a neighborhood, national and international level. An Eagle Scout, he has been active since graduating from Centenary College and returning to Dallas. He has mentored hundreds of young men and directly influenced the Scouting experience of tens of thousands. Whether it is teaching a boy to tie a square knot or organizing hundreds of volunteers to host a regional campout for thousands at Texas Motor Speedway, he is a model example of the selfless servant. While he has been recognized with many Scouting Awards during his 42 years of service, he should be named Texan of the Year so that every Texan could learn from his example!"

Peter Hotez: The microbiologist at Texas Children's Hospital and dean of the National School of Tropical Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, for his clarion call to Congress to spend money to fight Zika. The Houston doctor wrote an opinion piece for _The New York Times _back in April that warned people living along the Gulf Coast could be at great risk, especially pregnant women. Other health advocates and regular people slowly took notice and began urging Congress, too, and Hotez continued his pressure. Finally, five months later, Congress approved funding for Zika prevention.

Chad Houser: His Café Momentum restaurant trains and employs at risk teens so they can learn the food service industry and serves as a positive role model for these young men.Another reader notes that Janice Provost of Parigi Restaurant is co-founder of Café Momentum.

Brandon Huether: This marketing and communications coordinator for Grand Prairie Parks and Recreation "should be the Texan of the Year based on his success in promoting the city's parks, events and conservation," wrote one Grand Prairie reader. "He is shining light in what it takes to be a servant to citizens, the county, the state, and the guests that come to Texas and the city of Grand Prairie.

Walt Humann: This reader recognized Humann for his work related to improving Fair Park: "For trying his best to turn the wasted Fair Park grounds into something the city could be proud of year round. It was a difficult and thankless job and only after a great deal of work and effort and passion did others wake up and decide that they wanted their "fair share."

The immigrant community: From the nominating reader in Lewisville, "These people take risks for a better life that I'm not sure a lot of us have the courage to do and have put a spotlight on what some think is wrong with our county and Texas. I believe as a diverse group of citizens, it makes us stronger and adds to richness to our lives. Regardless of your belief, this group has dramatically shaped our state today. I nominate the immigrant community for Texan of the Year for taking risks and enriching our culture."

Janis Graham Jack: Corpus Christi-based Jack, a federal judge in Texas' Southern District, is the major reason we have devoted urgent attention to Texas' tragically inadequate child-welfare system this year. Her lengthy and powerfully written ruling that 12,000 Texas children in long-term foster care are at serious risk was issued in late 2015, but its repercussions began taking hold this year. Jack's severe criticisms of the state's failure to protect vulnerable kids in long-term care from harm trained a powerful spotlight on shortcomings throughout our shamefully inadequate child welfare system, from caseworker overload to out-and-out bureaucratic fraud. She remains an active participant in the effort to improve children's lives in her meticulous oversight of the ongoing reforms she has ordered. It is at her behest that two special masters -- appointed despite the state attorney general's office's efforts to block them -- are steadily working to find ways to address systemic problems. For too many kids, problems result in abandonment by the same people who were supposed to be their rescuers. Because of her efforts, attention has been focused on CPS from top to bottom, beyond just long-term foster care. State officials are being held to account -- again -- but maybe this time, as a result of Judge Jack's powerful ruling and stern oversight -- it's an effort Texas will be able to sustain.

(Another suggestion regarding CPS: Leiliana Wright, the 4-year-old who died from savage abuse by her mother and her mother's boyfriend, has prompted a round of investigations and hand-wringing at CPS. A call to CPS that Leiliana and her brother might be in danger should have brought a case worker to check on them within 72 hours. It took 36 days. That was too long for Leiliana. She died on March 13; the Legislature could have ordered emergency funding to CPS to hire more workers to ensure the most vulnerable children are safe. Instead, lawmakers have rearranged the executives at the agency without offering needed funding or other substantial changes.

Clay Jenkins: The nominator said of the Dallas County judge: "He has consistently shown courage and the will to do the right thing even when he is alone in doing so. He has gone out of his way to demonstrate by action ... He is consistently calm even when others are not."

Lawrence Jenkins: The Arlington reader who made this nomination said, "The photos, professional [by Jenkins and others] and independent, that were taken after the July 7th shooting. Especially the photos from the Prestonwood memorial service.

Paulette Jiles: The San Antonio resident has written a definitive Texas novel, News of the World, about a Civil War veteran tasked with transporting a 10-year-old Kiowa captive back to her family in South Texas. News of the World, which includes scenes set in 19th-century Dallas, was long-listed for the 2016 National Book Award and we'll know Nov. 16 whether it's one of the winners.

*Eddie Bernice Johnson: The nominator said, "A lifetime of representing us in the United State Congress. This is her last term so let's recognize and thank her."

Sam Johnson: This nomination reads, "Rep. Johnson is a true patriot and steadfastly represents his constituents and their needs."

*Coleman Jones: The vice president of Howdy Homemade, an ice cream store that opened in Highland Park in January. The nominator wrote, "Like an estimated 400,000 Americans, Coleman was born with an extra chromosome, meaning he has Down syndrome. If you've ever been to the store and met Coleman, you will remember him instantly. He loves giving out free samples, he is genuinely excited to be there, and he clearly understands his role in the store's future success. (If you go on a day when he's not working, look for Coleman's picture on the wall behind the ice cream station. He's proudly wearing his Boy Scout uniform displaying his Eagle Scout pin.)" A bit farther down on this list you'll also find a nomination for Tom Landis, the founder of Howdy Homemade.

*Nicky Jordan: This 9-year-old Spring, Texas, boy was nominated by his mother, Kim, for his inspiration and courage as he and his family fights against his rare and aggressive brain cancer. Another nomination, this one from a Plano reader, says: "Nicky is the embodiment of 'being your best self.' And he's doing so in the face of unimaginable adversity. If not for his adversity, we wouldn't know about Nicky and have such an iconic lesson in how to live life. God at work."

Clayton Kershaw: LA Dodgers pitcher and Highland Park High School grad who does a lot of great work with his wife Ellen through Kershaw's Challenge. This reader said, "Terrific example of a generous couple devoting money and time to better the lives and opportunity for many diverse groups. They don't have to do this, but commit to it unselfishly."

Renu Khator and Tom Herman: This reader noted that the University of Houston system chancellor and head football coach were waging a powerful campaign to break into the Big 12 Conference. Unfortunately, as we learned Oct. 17, they were not successful.

*Nim Kidd: Director of the Texas department of emergency management, his role in the aftermath of "all the disasters in the last year throughout the state go unrecognized to the public at large," this nominator from Rowlett said. "From tornadoes to floods to ice storms, Texas had a rough year and the leadership of Kidd and his organization helped all of the communities navigate the FEMA hurdles in efforts to get federal assistance. Nim has visited these communities and he defends and advocates on behalf of Texas and is respected nationally for his efforts. Without Nim, who participates on the national advisory council to FEMA, Texas would not have had such successful recoveries and assistance."

Curtis King: King is the founder and executive director of The Black Academy of Arts and Letters, which is celebrating its 40th year in Dallas. This nominator suggested King not only for his contributions to the arts in Dallas, but in building a legacy of positive influence with Dallas children over that time, with his summer performance three-week camp that's free to DISD students. For three weeks, kids learn not just performing a musical on stage, but they learn all aspects from lighting to photography.

Jim Knox: This reader said, "He made Globe Life Ballpark a fun and exciting place for visitors from all over, showing true Texas hospitality and embracing young and old alike. Many people's first visit to Texas was made better by him being around the Texas Rangers' home field."

Tomi Lahren: This conservative political commentator was nominated by a reader who wrote, "She speaks the truth for the American people! She is a true journalist."

Tom Landis: Founder of Howdy Homemade, the ice cream shop on Lovers Lane, which opened just before the first of 2016 and only employs individuals with special needs. "Tom is on a mission to help find employment for special needs individuals everywhere," said the nominating reader.

Mark Levin: He created the "Right on Crime" program at the Texas Public Policy Foundation several years ago. This reader continued: "Thanks almost entirely to his efforts, he has convinced conservatives across the country (long the law-and-order guys) that this is actually an issue that they should support and they have! The evidence speaks for itself -- crime rates in TX are down, recidivism is down, and spending on the criminal justice system is down. Mark has really changed the game by making this a conservative issue -- it's now one of Rick Perry's signature stump speeches.

Dave Lieber: "The DMN Watchdog helps and looks out for Texans," this Dallas reader wrote.

Demi Lovato: The 23-year-old pop star who grew up in Colleyville and sang at the final "In Performance at the White House" is on an anti-body-shaming crusade this year, sacrificing pop stardom for protest.

Lovejoy High School's Gay-Straight Alliance: Allies are important, and never more so than in the teen years. That was the idea behind the founding of this organization at a Collin County campus. We recently saluted these students for standing together against homophobia.

David Lozano: The executive artistic director of Cara Mia Theatre in Dallas, Lozana arrived in 2002. The nominating reader credits him with "producing critically acclaimed published plays and creating new and experimental works while developing innovative and educational arts programming reflective of the Latino experience in the U.S."

Tom and Ken Luce: Here's an excerpt from the Dallas reader who nominated this father-son duo, "Tom and Ken Luce teamed up to help fight the stigma around mental illness in the state of Texas and nationally. The issue is a personal one for them. In order to create a catalyst for change, Tom became the founding CEO of Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute for Texas, a nonpartisan nonprofit focused on shaping the condition of mental health in Texas with local and legislative change. But the effort did not stop there. In order to move into a more public sphere, Tom came up with the idea of a social campaign to raise awareness and decrease the social stigma of mental health. That's where Ken Luce comes in. Tom brought the fledgling idea to his son, founder of LDWWgroup, an integrated marketing and communications agency. From there, the two co-created Okay to Say™, a community-driven social movement designed to increase public awareness that most mental illnesses are treatable and to offer messages of hope and recovery to Texans and their families."

Jessica Luther: In the words of the Texas Observer, "in her first book, Luther challenges the college sports establishment to hold athletes accountable when they commit rape, sexual assault and domestic violence." As Andrea Grimes put it, the Austin-based Luther has made an attempt at something approaching comprehensiveness on the topic, as opposed to focusing on just one school.

Keith Maitland: This Austin-based director is the genius behind the remarkable new documentary Tower, which, as DMN colleague Chris Vognar writes, "takes us back to a time before school shootings were a national epidemic, a time when America's innocence could be blown to bits by a deranged citizen with a rifle." It's a film that returns us to a fatal day in Austin history, when Charles Whitman, perched atop the University of Texas Tower began shooting, leaving 16 dead and 33 injured.

Johnny Manziel: This nominator wrote, "From the first freshman-eligible Heisman Trophy winner to an out-of-work footnote awaiting criminal trial, Johnny Manziel's life has crashed almost to the bottom. His 2016 started with his last bizarre days with the Cleveland Browns, including a poorly designed alias for an unauthorized trip to Las Vegas. Amid rumors of heavy drinking and drug abuse, his life spiraled downward as fast as almost any athlete we can remember. By early February, a former girlfriend accused him of beating her and forcibly driving her from Dallas to Fort Worth, threatening to "kill them both." His father worried publicly that the former Texas A&M star "wouldn't live to see his 24th birthday" if he didn't submit to rehab again. Manziel continued to pledge a comeback, even as NFL teams, agents and sponsors shied away. By April, a Dallas County grand jury indicted him on a Class A misdemeanor family violence charge. (That trial is pending, as of this writing.) He ignores his own promise to get sober on July 1. A full round of NFL training camps yields zero interest in the former first-round draft pick."

Larissa Martinez: This McKinney Boyd High School graduate bound for Yale was one of two Texas valedictorians who went public this spring regarding their undocumented status. Martinez, who said she did so to bring attention to the country's broken immigration system -- she's been waiting more than seven years for her citizenship application to be processed -- reminds us of the real people behind this policy battle, said the nominating reader. Another reader also suggested Mayte Lara Ibarra, of Austin, who also graduated at the top of her class and announced during her graduation speech that she was undocumented.

Frisco Mayor Maher Maso: Maso deserves recognition, this nominator wrote,for citizen leadership in one of the fastest-growing communities in the country. Maso, who was born in Jordan, moved to North Texas almost 25 years ago, and has often been the public point man on Frisco's spectacular real estate projects. This year's big score was the opening of The Star, a joint venture with the Dallas Cowboys and Frisco schools. It set a new standard in private-public partnerships and helped attract a stream of major investments. The area around The Star is now known as the $5 billion mile. Maso joined the Frisco City Council in 2002 and became mayor in 2008. While he's quick to credit many contributors, Maso has been the leader in making big investments pay off for the community and its residents. Frisco has helped create impressive venues for soccer, baseball and hockey, plus shopping malls and office towers. Family-friendly and booming, Frisco remains one of the best places to live in North Texas. That's no small feat when your neighbors include Plano and Richardson. Maso's tenure as mayor must end in April because Frisco has term limits. But he'll leave a lasting impression on his city and the region.(Another reader suggested Maso and a second development-oriented mayor, Plano's Harry LaRosiliere.)

*George Mason: The Wilshire Baptist Church pastor was described like this by a nominator: "His support of Louise Troh and her family during the Ebola crisis and now his thoughtful and compassionate leadership of Wilshire on the full inclusion of the LGBT community in the church represents the best of what it means to be a Christian and putting our faith to work."

Lynn McBee: CEO of Young Women's Preparatory Network opened the group's eighth school in Texas this year (in Ysleta). Two of the schools were named Blue Ribbon campuses this year; the Lubbock school received its first National Merit Scholar.

Daphne McQuarter: This reader wrote that McQuarter, through her Grapevine-based organization I Am Her Voice, "advocates for girls who have been sexually trafficked throughout Texas.

*Bill Metzger: This Dallas County justice of the peace, who represents the Mesquite area, made news early this year when he said on Facebook that his religious views keep prevent him from conducting same-sex weddings. A number of nominators noted that he is representing their values on the issue. While JPs supplement their income by conducting marriages, it is not part of their official duties.

Donald Mickelson: According to the nominating reader, "This humble man lives in Irving and helps out all of the elderly ladies in the neighborhood. Mows their grass, stops by if they call. Never ceases in spreading good will. Two are in homes with apparently no family. He mows the grass so the city won't cite. He volunteers with Ambucs and the hospital. A quiet, unassuming person. He deserves attention!"

Daniel Miller: This reader said, "As president of the Texas Nationalist Movement, Daniel has brought Texas independence into the mainstream. He was able to lead the effort to get this issue debated on at the state Republican convention. His work is changing Texas for centuries to come."

Kevin Mondy: Mondy is the president/executive director of Project Still I Rise in Dallas, an organization that puts a heavy focus on STEM studies and African-American male development, The reader who nominated him wrote, "Mondy has impacted a great number of underprivileged adolescents and teens through his nonprofit's math and science programs. Through PSIR, children are encouraged and rewarded for the participation in STEM competitions across the US. Without his dedication and drive, many of them would not have been offered such learning and growth opportunities. He is a great Texan."

Hector Montoya: Moved by the deaths of a Fort Worth mother and daughter in a house fire, the then-9-year-old decided to use the $300 he had saved for a PlayStation 4 to buy and donate smoke detectors to families who didn't have them. Now 11, the Grand Prairie youth has donated 6,425 of the devices across North Texas.

Maren Morris: This dynamic Texas singer just won the Country Music Association's New Artist of the Year award. The nomination for Morris reads, "She is the hottest new musician in country music right now. ... She was 11 years old, singing the national anthem at a game in D-FW. The Arlington native recently moved to Nashville and will soon be up there with Carrie Underwood and Kacey Musgraves in female country music stardom."

Marilyn Morrison: Morrison was initially nominated by her mother, from Grapevine, who wrote this: I'm nominating my daughter because of her bravery in advocating for transgender rights at the awesome age of 8." Marilyn also received nominations from several other readers, one of whom said, "She is the courageous 8-year-old transgender girl who is standing up for the rights of transgender children in Texas schools to use the bathroom of their choice. A true hero."

Avery Nenmann: Avery, student body president of Eaton High School in Haslet, is, according to these nominators, "the embodiment of the state of Texas. She's proud of her home and represents our state perfectly."

North Texas tornado heroes such as Rowlett Mayor Todd Gottel, who earned the nickname "Batmayor" as a result of his continuing presence in every facet of recovery. Also among the big-hearted spotted in action by DMN reporters were First Baptist Rowlett senior pastor Cole Hedgecockand First Rowlett United Methodist Church associate pastor Dretha Burris. A community lifeline in Garland was Living Hope Baptist Church pastor Troy DeFeo, and his twin brother andassociate pastor, Eric, stayed around the clock at the building -- one of few with power in the area -- to maintain a community base. Also Paul Garcia, the pastor of Bobtown Road Baptist Church in Garland and a volunteer chaplain for the Dallas County Sheriff's Department. Plus Whitney Lanning, director of the Rowlett Citizens's Emergency Response Team, who a reader noted helped countless families in the rain and cold. Another reader wrote, "Pastor Mike Hankins and his church, Church in the City, Rowlett, operated a Disaster Relief Center for tornado survivors, providing free haircuts, hot meals, shelter, showers and toiletries, food pantry and work items, cleaning supplies, clothing and household items; free medical services, triage counseling sessions. CITC also contributed over 30,000 volunteer hours to Rowlett's rebuilding efforts, valued at $706,800, and housed volunteer crews performing services valued at close to $1,000,000 for debris removal at more than 200 worksites, including the complete demolition of 43 homes."

Olympic trio of Simone Biles, Michelle Carter and Simone Manuel: They led a powerful team of Texas Olympians, Biles with her four gold medals and a bronze in gymnastics; Carter, the first U.S. woman to take gold in the shot put; Manuel, the first African-American woman to win an individual goal in swimming.

Parker County's lifesaving prisoners: Eight men broke out of their holding cell at the Weatherford jail in July to save the life of a jailer after he fell unconscious, after apparently suffering a heart attack.

Dan Patrick: The state's lieutenant governor was nominated by a Dallas reader "for all the hard work he has done for the state of Texas."

Candace Payne, aka the Chewbacca Mom: This Star Wars fan from Grand Prairie joyously celebrated her new Kohl's purchase of a toy Chewbacca mask in a Facebook Live video that became the talk of the Internet, TV and many points beyond. One nominating reader wrote, "She brought joy and laughter to a very unhappy world."

Lee Powell: This nominator noted Powell wears many hat: Texas historian, raconteur, cowboy, ex- boxer, movie actor and radio personality on KNON in Dallas. The writer continued, "His stories are magnificent, his knowledge of off-beat Texas history amazing, and he is an all around nice guy. He is the kind of guy who would literally give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. He does Texas proud!"

Dak Prescott: Not surprisingly, the rookie Cowboys quarterback who is off to such a hot NFL start is getting a lot of votes. One of the many nominators wrote this, "He stepped in to replace a fragile quarterback and immediately converted a losing team into a winning team." (Coach Jason Garrett has even gotten a vote, thanks to the good season the Cowboys have had, the first Texan of the Year nomination for Garrett that we recall. And QB Tony Romo has been singled out by several readers for his graciousness, coming back from injury and now backing up Prescott.)

*Blake Pyron: The 20-year-old proprietor of Blake's Snow Shack, who in May was officially proclaimed by Sen. Ted Cruz "the youngest business owner in Sanger, is also likely the only business owner in Sanger with Down syndrome. This young man has clearly shown what it means to inspire others and overcome challenges, as he received more than 70 nominations from readers, many of whom said they had been personally touched by his smile and his business savvy.

Cecile Richards: Cecile Richards and Planned Parenthood are, in the words of this nominating reader, "fighting the good fight for women's health. In a state where we have seen a huge spike in women's death within the first year of birth, her battle to bring health care to millions of women across the country is noble."

Rebecca Richards-Kortum: This Rice University bioengineering professor was awarded a MacArthur Fellowship, a.k.a. the genius grant, in September for her work solving medical problems in resource-strapped developing countries. She has approached her bioengineering lectures as a chance to change the world, challenging undergrads to design new medical devices and technologies that can actually be put into practice anywhere in the world.

Aaron Rippenkroeger and the Syrian refugees:President and CEO of nonprofit Refugee Services of Texas, "Rippenkroeger has stayed true to the spirit of hospitality and compassion that Texas embodies -- even though our politicians would not," says this nominator. Refugee Services of Texas provides resettlement, legal services and job readiness for these people fleeing the bloodshed and destruction in their homes. Rippenkroeger appeared at a Senate Health and Human Services Committee hearing in the spring to give a brief on the status of refugees in Texas and abroad. The reader continues: "He has been one of the most adamant and vocal about the misguided actions of our leaders in the face of international crisis, and I feel he and the refugees themselves are fitting of the title."

Sandy Rollins: This nominator singled out Rollins, the veteran head of the Texas Tenants Union, for her success in "educating and fighting for tenants rights for over 30 years.

Dallas naturalists Ben Sandifer, Billy Ray and Zada Pemberton and preservationist Veletta Lill: This quartet gets a mention from a reader for their relentless grass-roots campaign to gain the same landmark protection for Big Spring in southern Dallas that the city traditionally gives to historic buildings. They won the designation in April of this year.

Dr. Rebecca Sharpless and other history teachers like her: From this nominating reader in Temple, "History teachers have become the go-to people when the nation is at a crossroads and more frequently when turmoil erupts. I have been amazed at how many news shows now tap into the scholarly wisdom of history teachers to help explain the current political peregrinations. Perhaps there is no equivalent to this year's election, but history teachers help us make sense of the illogical, to help us understand that we are but a small ripple in the mighty ocean of cause and effect. Teachers such as Sharpless at Texas Christian University and her colleagues help the young, disaffected voter see that 'the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice (words by ML King).' Along the way, she empowered young women to a new appreciation and understanding of their inherent power and goodness. Now, more than ever, we need the past to help us make sense of the present and chart the future."

Tom "Smitty" Smith: He has spent decades advocating for the environment and the right of regular people to breathe clean air and drink clean water. He did so honorably, without fear-mongering, and earned the respect of energy executives and environmentalist alike. He mentored young journalists and policymakers as they tried to learn the complicated business of energy and environment. And his greatest wisdom: Nobody wants to discuss energy efficiency, but it's the easiest, cheapest, most important path to a cleaner environment.

Michael Sorrell: President of Paul Quinn College who this year, in partnership with black elected officials across North Texas, is creating an African American Leadership Institute that will be housed on the southeast Oak Cliff campus.

John and Debbie Southwell: This Hondo, Texas, couple created HANK, which stands for Helping Abused and Neglected Kids, several years ago to work with the Department of Family and Protective Services to provide resources such as beds, sports and band equipment, gifts, school supplies, graduation invitations and class rings to children in Medina, Uvalde and Real counties who have been removed from home and are in the state's care.

William Sydney Spears: The nominator of Spears, who is chairman and founder of Cenergistic, which develops energy conservation programs, wrote in her nomination that the EPA has recognized Cenergistic for the past seven years and the company has done much to help its clients save both money and the environment.

*Lori Spies: Spies is a nurse practitioner and associate professor at Baylor University, teaching graduate nursing students. She also is the missions coordinator for Baylor's Louise Herrington School of Nursing. The nominating reader wrote: "In that role, she has completed numerous mission trips with her students and other faculty to impoverished areas of Africa and other parts of the globe. She also participates in foreign mission work through her church. Her philanthropic works continue at home, as well. She and her husband, Richard, have enabled a group of refugees to grow crops on a small patch of acreage that they own. Dr. Spies' zeal and enthusiasm for these volunteer efforts are contagious, prompting many of her friends and acquaintances to provide supplies and support for her mission trips and other good works. She is an exemplary role model and inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing her."

Jordan Spieth: The nominating reader wrote that the golfer, part of this year's Ryder Cup winning team and Dallas educated from primary grades through high school, is a great ambassador. Other readers agreed.

Randall Stephenson: The AT&T chairman and CEO stepped onto the national stage in 2016 with a cutting-edge speech about diversity and the Black Lives Matter movement "Tolerance is for cowards," he said in a speech that went viral. "Being tolerant requires nothing from you but to be quiet and not make waves." Such language is especially welcome in Texas, where culture wars are still raging and many business leaders still have real clout. This year, Stephenson has been busy on other fronts, too. He's pushing AT&T, one of the world's largest companies, to become more nimble and tech savvy. AT&T now competes with tech leaders Google, Amazon and Netflix, he said, and employees must upgrade their skills -- with AT&T often offering to pick up the costs. "Adapt or else," was the headline in The New York Times. This year, AT&T continued to successfully absorb DirecTV, an acquisition that provides a major new revenue stream. The company also announced that it would expand the headquarters in downtown Dallas and hire over 1,000 workers here. AT&T is ubiquitous in this region, from the AT&T Performing Arts Center in Dallas to AT&T Stadium in Arlington. As a corporate citizen, it doesn't get much better than this. And it all starts with the CEO.

Cindy Stormer: Hired as a prosecutor by former Dallas County DA Craig Watkins, she was later promoted and then fired by his predecessor, Susan Hawk. Stormer later filed a lawsuit to remove Hawk from office, citing, in part, Hawk's mental health problems. A judge dismissed the suit in January. The reader nominating Stormer said, she "had the character and courage to pursue Hawk's dismissal."

Steve Stroop: Rev. Stroop, of Lake Pointe Church, Rockwall, has created scores of churches throughout the country and world, according to this nominator. "He is unparalleled at this. His impact has brought thousands of souls to Christ. "

Sunset High School's Robo*Flash team: This group of eight students with various physical and mental disabilities has become a blockbuster robotics team and is working to establish the world's first competitive robotics league. They envision robotics becoming a mainstream program for students with disabilities.

Chris Supron: This member of the Electoral College from Texas is warning that he might not cast his electoral vote for Republican Donald Trump. The reader who nominated Supron wrote: "Can you imagine the courage and strength it must take to be willing to take on the GOP establishment? Especially in Texas."

Texas coaches like Randy Jackson of Grapevine and Josh Ragsdale of South Garland: From the reader: All Texas coaches who follow their lead and show leadership in undertaking the task of guiding young men to respect females and, hopefully, avoid (or at the least reduce) the frequency of females being the recipients of sexually abusive language and actions."

Texas first responders: This reader wrote, "For the third time in as many years, I am nominating our first responders, our police officers and firefighters. These men and women put their lives on the line daily, seven days a week, 24 hours a day all year long. They work holidays too. The police officers have had an especially hard time this past year, and I think they deserve recognition. All towns in Texas are protected by our First Responders and they deserve to be recognized and appreciated."

*Texas voters: This nominator wrote: "In spite of -- or maybe because of -- all the awful circumstances, mud-slinging, lying, propaganda, hype, surrounding our presidential election 2016, voters turned out in record numbers, taking advantage of and responsibility for the great privilege of casting a ballot. This spotlights our American freedom."

Rachel Triska: Executive director and faith leader at Life in Deep Ellum, a cultural center built for the artistic, social, economic and spiritual benefit of Deep Ellum and urban Dallas.

Cameasha Turner: One of nine former college athletes who were finalists for the 2016 NCAA Woman of the Year award), Lincoln HS's Turner graduated from UTEP with a perfect 4.0 and a spot on several all-academic basketball teams. She is now pursuing her dream as a first-semester law student at Notre Dame. One of 11 children, she witnessed a lot of crime and drug activity in her early years; she's now a role model for so many public school students based on her success and perseverance.

SMU President R. Gerald Turner: This reader suggested that if you check out the SAT scores on the SMU campus, "enough said!"

Brittany Merrill Underwood: She created the Akola jewelry enterprise in 2007 to provide decent-paying jobs for low-income mothers and women with HIV and AIDS. This year she has a similar operation rolling in her hometown of Dallas, striking a deal for the necklaces and bracelets to be sold in the Neiman Marcus designer jewelry department and showcased in the store's Christmas catalog. This means a living wage for about 100 local women in need. As the nominating reader said: "That is one of the most heartwarming fabulous efforts ever! I think every woman in Dallas should have one on her arm."

The uterus transplant team at Baylor University Medical Center: Baylor announced plans in January to conduct the first in the nation trial to attempt uterine transplants using human donors. In mid-September, the first of four women who were born without uteruses underwent the novel and controversial surgery. Three of the four experienced complications, and doctors had to remove the uteruses; one has had no signs of organ rejection. (Baylor has not set a date for when it will begin the next round of transplants.)

Daria Vera: This now 70-year-old was among the farm workers who went on strike in the 1960s in the Rio Grande Valley in an effort to improve conditions for laborers. She's been helping give a voice to the state's most impoverished and voiceless residents ever since.

David Vobora: From the nominator: "I recently moved to Texas from the East Coast, where it is easy to be jaded about people and their true intentions. They may want to act on desires to help others, but it typically never happens. That jaded point of view disappeared when I met David Vobora and his nonprofit Adaptive Training Foundation in downtown Dallas. I don't focus on the fact he is a former NFL player but that he and his ATF team devote their energy and existence to inspire and transform amputee veterans to mentally and physically healthy superstars!"

Wylie ISD Superintendent David Vinson: According to this reader, "Under Dr. Vinson's leadership, Wylie posted the largest gains of any large district on the state assessment test and has been hailed as the 'Star of the STAAR.' Recently, Wylie ISD was one of just 12 districts statewide (and just 529 nationwide) to be named to the College Board Advanced Placement Honor Roll. Dr. Vinson is ceaselessly hardworking, gets to know as many students and staff as he possibly can personally, and has charged the atmosphere of our district with hope, excellence and camaraderie."

*Sgt. Michael Ryan Walter: The nominator wrote this: "Ryan Walters is a United States Marine in his first enlistment who has served 2 tours of duty in Iraq and who has been promoted to the rank of sergeant, which is very unusual for a first enlistment, due to his demonstrated leadership. Ryan graduated from Arlington High School and attended TCC before enlisting. When given the opportunity by the USMC, he has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and is a shining star among his peers. This young man is the type of youth that we should be giving recognition in this time instead of pointing out the youth that are acting against the interests of their country!"

Kelcy Warren: The chief executive of Energy Transfer Partners would like to build an oil pipeline from the Bakken field in North Dakota to refineries in Illinois. By doing so, he kicked up a fierce debate about oil production and eminent domain in a part of the country where people don't have much connection to oil companies, prompting protests that have made international news. Here's hoping the concern can develop into a debate about how much energy Americans want to use, how to transport it safely, and how to share the environmental costs fairly.

*Ray Washburne: This Dallas businessman and vice chairman of the joint fundraising committee for President-elect Donald Trump and the Republican National Committee received several nominations for his "instrumental role in helping Trump win the presidency, in the most contentious and consequential presidential election in the last 100 years."

Wade McCrae Washington: This 45-year-oldHouston resident's story has been featured -- for good reason -- in many national publications in the last year or so. Washington was diagnosed with cerebral palsy as an infant, a disease that affects 2 in 1,000 newborn children, and scoliosis later in life. He approached his trainer at a local gym in Houston wanting to compete in bodybuilding competitions after the death of his grandmother reinforced his own feelings of mortality. He had realized he wanted to do something more with his life. Together, they found a competition, reached out to the owner and entered him. Washington performed in front of thousands at the Formula 1 Nutrition Classic and was the first to win in his bodybuilding division. He now has more confidence, and trains harder than ever. Washington has not only obliterated norms by entering his physically handicapped body into a purely physical competition and medaling, but he has set an immensely important standard for others with disabilities to look up to. In competition this summer, he became the first participant in the Global Bodybuilding Organization to compete in the adaptive division and earn professional status.

Steven Weinberg: This reader's nomination went like this: "For a Nobel prize-winning physicist at the University of Texas who opposed open carry at the university. He said at a faculty council meeting , 'I will put it into my syllabus that the class is not open to students carrying guns.' Weinberg is among the more high-profile professors putting his tenure on the line to oppose a law he deems dangerous. And he represents hundreds of other, lesser-known professors, who have even more at stake than a Nobel laureate, and are doing the same."

Don Willett: Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett won mention for his social media presence, namely his @JusticeWillett Twitter account. The nominator wrote: "He has provided a new perspective on law and governmental ideas. His use of humor draws in followers, keeping them engaged as he informs and educates others on commonly looked over subjects that are typically construed as boring. It's noteworthy that a majority of his followers are young people, who generally see these subjects, again, as boring or unimportant. However, his ways of engaging them have become very effective in getting people interested. Willett is very involved in his community, and really, really loves Texas. Also, he bought his son Bill of Rights pajamas and if that isn't hilarious, I don't know what is."

*Christopher Keith Williams: The nominating reader says Williams "has been working hard 10 years in the southern Dallas communities getting citizens engaged in policy-making decisions, which has become a cornerstone of bringing the gap between local politics and community involvement."